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Sadly enough, my young friends, it is a characteristic of…

“Sadly enough, my young friends, it is a characteristic of our age that if people want any gods at all, they want them to be gods who do not demand much, comfortable gods, smooth gods who not only don't rock the boat but don't even row it, gods who pat us on the head, make us giggle, then tell us…” quote by Jeffrey R. Holland
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“Sadly enough, my young friends, it is a characteristic of our age that if people want any gods at all, they want them to be gods who do not demand much, comfortable gods, smooth gods who not only don't rock the boat but don't even row it, gods who pat us on the head, make us giggle, then tell us to run along and pick marigolds.”

Jeffrey R. Holland

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

People often desire easy, non‑demanding deities that comfort rather than challenge, reflecting a cultural shift toward complacency.

In simple terms: People want comfortable, non‑demanding gods.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the danger of seeking only comfort in belief.

Themes

faith comfort culture complacency spirituality

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical spiritual

When to use this quote

  • religious practice
  • media influence
  • personal belief systems
  • social trends

Key Concepts

theology existentialism

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do we gravitate toward comforting beliefs?
  • What challenges arise when faith demands effort?
A Different Perspective

Such attitudes can weaken moral resolve and personal growth.

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